Islamabad, November 2025 — The Islamabad Traffic Police (ITP) has announced a comprehensive traffic management plan for the upcoming Tri-Nation One-Day International (ODI) Cricket Series starting November 17, 2025, at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium.
With thousands of spectators expected to travel between Islamabad and Rawalpindi, the advisory aims to ensure smooth vehicular flow, minimize congestion, and enhance safety during match days.
Over 300 Officers Deployed for Smooth Traffic Flow
According to the ITP, over 300 officers will be deployed across major roads, intersections, and entry points of both cities to regulate traffic and manage crowd movements.
High-traffic areas including Srinagar Highway, Islamabad Expressway, 9th Avenue, and Murree Road will have additional checkpoints and diversion setups.
ITP officials have also urged the public to cooperate with on-ground officers, follow diversion signage, and plan trips ahead of match hours.
Alternate Routes During Road Closures
To manage the movement of cricket teams and spectators, several routes will face temporary restrictions. The ITP has shared alternate route options for key closures and diversions:
If Faisal Avenue is closed:
- Use Srinagar Highway, Club Road via Faizabad, or Park Road via Lehtrar Road.
If 9th Avenue is closed:
- Take Sabzi Mandi Mor → Police Lines Chowk → Srinagar Highway, or Golra Mor → Peshawar Mor → Srinagar Highway.
For traffic from Margalla Road toward Khanna:
- Recommended path: Blue Area → Club Road → Lehtrar Road.
Secondary corridors and service roads will remain accessible, while directional boards and signages will assist drivers during restricted periods.
Entry and Exit Points Near Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium
Traffic around Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, particularly Stadium Road, Murree Road, and Double Road, will experience diversions several hours before match start times.
- Team Movements: Temporary closures expected 1 hour before and after match schedules.
- Spectator Access: Parking zones designated near Satellite Town and 6th Road.
- Public Transport: Metro Bus and local routes will operate but may face minor delays.
To ease congestion, citizens are advised to avoid unnecessary travel through Faizabad, Shamsabad, and Rehmanabad during match timings.
Safety and Security Measures
The Islamabad Traffic Police, in coordination with Rawalpindi Police, has deployed additional patrol units to prevent bottlenecks.
Digital variable-message boards will display live updates on diversions, and helpline 1915 will remain active for traffic-related assistance.
The ITP FM 92.4 radio channel will broadcast real-time traffic updates during the event. Commuters are encouraged to stay tuned for information before leaving home.
Tips for Commuters During Match Days
- Plan ahead and leave early to avoid rush hours.
- Use alternative routes suggested by ITP.
- Rely on navigation apps for live updates.
- Avoid parking near stadium gates or on service roads.
- Follow police instructions and road signage at diversion points.
These measures are expected to reduce congestion during team arrivals and post-match dispersal.
Impact on Inter-City Travel and Rentals
The traffic plan will temporarily affect inter-city and airport routes during match hours. Travellers commuting between Islamabad, Rawalpindi, and Islamabad International Airport should account for longer travel times.
Visitors arriving from other cities for the cricket series can consider driver-included rental services for convenience and safety. Reliable providers ensure professional navigation through traffic diversions, helping visitors reach stadiums and hotels without hassle.
For dependable travel arrangements during this period, Al Farooq Rent A Car offers comfortable vehicles with trained drivers who are familiar with city routes and live traffic conditions.
Conclusion
The Tri-Nation Cricket Series promises exciting matches and large turnouts in Rawalpindi. With proactive deployment of over 300 officers, real-time updates, and clearly marked diversions, the Islamabad Traffic Police’s plan aims to keep both cities moving smoothly.
Residents and visitors alike are encouraged to follow official advisories, respect law enforcement directions, and plan their commutes strategically to avoid delays on match days.
FAQs
Q1. When will the Tri-Nation Cricket Series start in Rawalpindi?
The series begins on November 17, 2025, at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium.
Q2. Which routes should commuters avoid during match days?
Avoid Murree Road, Faizabad, 9th Avenue, and Faisal Avenue near team movement hours.
Q3. How many officers are deployed for traffic control?
Over 300 officers are managing traffic flow across Islamabad and Rawalpindi.
Q4. What are the alternate routes suggested by ITP?
Use Srinagar Highway, Club Road, or Park Road via Lehtrar Road, depending on the closure.
Q5. Where can visitors hire a driver-included car during the event?
Visit Al Farooq Rent A Car Islamabad for convenient local and inter-city rental options.
